Moko Pounamu Patu Wakahuia Genuine NZ Totara - Whatoro

This is a gorgeous hand-carved Totara Patu with stunning Te Whai Rahi (Manta Ray) etched into the Patu and box. The fitted Wakahuia is lined with red felt and acrylic prongs set into the inside of the lid that are removable to sit in the lid of the Wakahuia box to display the Patu, made on the Arahura Pa from native New Zealand Tōtara.

This is a beautiful item to showcase at your home and/or would make a unique wedding or housewarming gift.

Thank you for supporting a small Maori family owned business.

Mere or Patu is a type of short, broad-bladed weapon in the shape of an enlarged tear drop. It was used to strike/jab an opponent in the body or the head. The Mere signifies high status and gives the owner courage and strength. It is the same design as a Patu, but the difference is a Patu is made of wood, stone, or whale bone whereas Meres are made of Greenstone Pounamu.

Te Whai Rahi - Manta Ray is respected as a powerful protector of the deep. Its unusual shape and the way it seems to glide out of the blackness gives it a very spiritual power, which it is in some areas believed to allow it to move between the mortal and spiritual realms at will. In certain areas of Aotearoa New Zealand, the Whai is believed to be Kaitiaki – Protector. They are often seen gliding effortlessly through the water at the beach, yet when they are startled or threatened their response can be quick, powerful.

Tōtara also known as the totara tree, was a dominant tree in lowland and mountain forests, but in modern times it's less prevalent. There are separate male and female tōtara – females produce fruit that takes a year to ripen to a red-coloured fruit which is edible and quite sweet. The male plants have pollen cones which develop in spring. Māori used tōtara when crafting waka, building and carving, and it is still used as a preferred carving timber.

This will be the exact piece you will receive in the photos, there may be a slight degree of colour variation based on different computer or device screen resolutions that you are viewing from.

Carved by Sam Ngaamo

Patu - 393mm long x 104mm wide x 24mm thick

Box - 426mm long x 142mm wide x 62mm thick

Total Height -200mm Approx

This will be the exact piece you will receive in the photos, there may be a slight degree of colour variation based on different computer or device screen resolutions that you are viewing from.